The parents of a seven-year-old British girl, who was tragically swept out to sea in Morocco, have issued a deeply emotional update regarding the ongoing search for their missing daughter. Inaayah Makda disappeared on January 28 after a sudden wave dragged her into the Atlantic Ocean while she was sitting on rocks with her parents, watching the sunset near Casablanca.
Heartbreaking Incident and Search Efforts
Zubair and Tasneem Makda, Inaayah's parents, recounted the harrowing moment when the wave struck, pulling all three of them underwater. They managed to regain their balance but lost sight of their daughter in the chaotic waters. Despite extensive search efforts involving charitable organisations, local volunteers, specialist diving units, and Moroccan authorities, Inaayah has not been found nearly a month later.
In a statement shared on the Blackburn Muslim Facebook page, the parents described this period as the "most painful and unimaginable time" of their lives. They expressed gratitude for the support received and detailed the ongoing search operations, which include:
- Shoreline searches conducted by Moroccan authorities
- Underwater dive operations and naval patrols
- Independent ground search teams organised by the family
- Efforts to secure drone search authorisation
- Leaflet distribution across coastal areas by volunteers who refused payment
Financial Support and Challenges
A GoFundMe appeal has raised over £61,000 to cover search costs and essential family expenses while they remain in Casablanca coordinating efforts. However, donations have been paused due to complex permissions and resource navigation through authorities. Stormy conditions have further disrupted search activities, adding to the family's distress.
The Makda family emphasised that without this financial support, their ability to continue the search would have been impossible. They assured transparency regarding any remaining funds, which will be directed toward charitable causes in Inaayah's name if the search concludes.
Difficult Decision Ahead
In their statement, the parents acknowledged the possibility of having to make a heartbreaking decision to end the physical search. They quoted from the Qur'an, saying, "Indeed, with hardship comes ease" (Qur'an 94:6), and expressed their reliance on faith during this blessed month of Ramadan. The family has placed their trust fully in Allah's decree while continuing to explore every possible avenue.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has confirmed they are supporting the family and are in contact with local authorities in Morocco. As the search enters its fourth week, the community's prayers and support remain crucial for the Makda family during this unimaginable ordeal.
